Proppant Embedding Prediction via Shale Softening Effect
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydraulic fracturing in shale gas wells faces challenges due to the difficulty in draining fracturing fluids and the mechanical property changes of shale fracture surfaces under high temperature and pressure, leading to inadequate prediction of proppant embedding depth, which affects the optimization of fracture width.
Innovation Solution
A calculation system comprising a sampling test terminal, scheduling module, monitoring module, and calculation module, connected via a wireless network, that predicts proppant embedding depth by considering the shale softening effect, adjusting proppant parameters in real-time based on sensed data and simulation models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing numerical models are used to simulate proppant embedding, then calculation accuracy can be improved, but the models ignore the influence of formation fluid which leads to inaccurate predictions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by conducting laboratory experiments to obtain empirical data on proppant embedding behavior under various formation fluid conditions. This preliminary data collection enables the development of a more complete model that accounts for formation fluid influences, resolving the contradiction between prediction accuracy and model completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring proppant embedding depth during hydraulic fracturing operations and comparing actual measurements with model predictions. This feedback loop allows for model refinement and adjustment, ensuring the model accurately reflects real-world conditions including formation fluid effects.
2Productivity
If proppant embedding depth is not accurately predicted, then fracture width optimization cannot be achieved, but existing models lack the necessary accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying multiple model parameters including proppant properties (particle size, shape, strength), formation conditions (temperature, pressure, rock mechanics), and fluid characteristics. This comprehensive parameter exploration enables accurate prediction of proppant embedding depth, which in turn allows for effective fracture width optimization.
3Measurement precision
If a comprehensive model including formation fluid effects is developed, then prediction accuracy improves, but the complexity of the calculation system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the complex proppant embedding problem into multiple manageable components: proppant characteristics, formation rock properties, hydraulic fracturing conditions, and formation fluid effects. Each component is modeled separately using appropriate mathematical relationships, then integrated to produce the overall prediction. This segmentation reduces the apparent complexity while maintaining comprehensive accuracy.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enhances the accuracy of predicting proppant embedding depth, optimizing fracture width, and improving hydraulic fracturing efficiency by dynamically adjusting proppant particle size and concentration, thereby improving the effectiveness of shale gas extraction.
Implementation Method 1
the shale fracture surfaces change in the mechanical properties under the action of high temperature and high pressure. Therefore, it is necessary to study and analyze the calculation system for proppant embedding depth under a softening effect of shale
Data Source
AI summary
A calculation system for predicting a proppant embedding depth based on a shale softening effect is provided, including a sampling test terminal, a scheduling module, a monitoring module, and a calculation module, wherein the scheduling module, the monitoring module, and the calculation module are connected in communication, and the monitoring module is connected to an external operating system through a wireless network, wherein the external operating system is configured to perform a hydraulic fracturing operation and receive a first control signal and/or a second control signal from the monitoring module. The sampling test terminal is configured to test the samples and obtain test data. The scheduling module is configured to determine a target construction parameter. The monitoring module is configured to: based on a difference between actual estimated proppant embedding volumes and a preset proppant embedding volume in the target operation area, issue a first warning message and/or send the first control signal to a fracturing control pump in the external operating system; in response to the characteristic parameters of the hydraulic fractures meeting the hydraulic fracture warning condition, issue a second warning information and/or send the second control signal to the fracturing control pump in the external operation system.